Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD
Patient Handout
CRYPTOCOCCOSIS
About Your
Diagnosis
Crytococcosis is a disease caused by a fungus
that usually starts in the lungs without causing symptoms, then spreads to the
nervous system, kidneys, bone, or skin. It is more serious for individuals with
underlying conditions. It can be life threatening for those with leukemia,
Hodgkin’s disease, transplant patients taking antirejection drugs, and
AIDS patients. The fungus may be spread through the air by dust particles
contaminated by pigeon droppings. It can be detected by laboratory studies and
x-rays. It is curable with
treatment.Living With Your
DiagnosisSigns and symptoms include
dull chest pain and a cough that may produce blood-streaked sputum; severe
headache; fever; blurred vision; confusion; red facial rash; and skin
ulcers.TreatmentMild
cases in a healthy individual may require no treatment. Those with a suppressed
immune system may need hospitalization. Antifungal medications such as Diflucan
will be prescribed. Side effects of the medication are nausea, vomiting, and
headache. Tylenol can be used for minor pain and fever. No special diet is
needed. Bed rest may be needed until fever and cough
disappears.The
DOs• Rest until the fever and
cough subside.• Take Tylenol for
minor pain and fever.• Take the
antifungal medication until
finished.• Maintain adequate fluid
intake and nutrition. Try small frequent meals if nausea is a
problem.• Keep follow-up
appointments. Frequent visits to your doctor are needed to detect recurrence of
the disease.The
DON’Ts• Don’t skip
doses or stop taking the antifungal
medication.• Don’t miss
follow-up appointments with your
doctor.When to Call Your
Doctor• If you cannot tolerate
the medication because of nausea and
vomiting.• If unexplained weight
loss occurs.• If a high fever
develops during treatment.• If a
severe headache, neck stiffness, or blurred vision
occurs.Websites:www.healthfinder.gov
(Choose SEARCH to search by topic)